Forest Clearance and Fragmentation for Charcoal Production: The Case of Bimbia Bonadikombo Forest, South West Region, Cameroon

Abstract

The exploitation activities of man on natural resources have hardly been sustainable. This study examined the implication of charcoal production on the Bimbia Bonadikombo forest and it’s environ. The study employed both direct field observation and questionnaire administration for data gathering. Questionnaires were administered to charcoal producers and persons involved in charcoal related activities. Persons were selected using snowball technique. A total of 42 copies of questionnaires were administered to charcoal producers and related activities. Tree species used for charcoal production were noted and identified. The questionnaire was divided into five sections:(i), socio-demographic characteristics of charcoal producers, (ii), methods of charcoal production and species selected (iii),  aspects influencing charcoal production and the implication on the ecosystem, (iv), seasonal trends and challenges faced (v) mitigation strategies used). Data collected were organized in Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for the analyses. Pearson (ρ) correlation association was used for the relationship between variables of production and the demand of charcoal. The result revealed that, majority of the respondents, 78.57%, were males while females were least 21.43%. Majority of the respondents (54.76%) were between the ages of 31-46 while the least with ages > 47. Lophira alata 14 (35.71%) was the tree species ranked 1st while Irvingia gabonensis1 (2.38%) was the least and ranked 8th. The main aspect that influenced production was revenue generated 14 (33.33%) while weak institutions 2(4.76%) and crises situations 2(2(4.76%) were the least. Deforestation 12(28.57%) and habitats destruction 8(10.04%) were reported as the main effects caused by charcoal production. Production and the demand of charcoal variables showed a positive association (0.153±.361). The management strategies employed were: only matured trees were used for charcoal production, permanent charcoal pit kiln are dug out of forest canopy and only few tree species are used for charcoal production. For mitigation purposes used are: domestication, protecting wild charcoal trees in their farms and nurseries establishment. This study recommends that charcoal is a major source of energy and alternative source of energy when others failed or insufficient. Therefore, this source of energy can be enhanced to be more eco friendly and environmentally sustainable.